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Sunday, September 23, 2012

Ants On the March Across New Zealand

Many New Zealanders are already experiencing
problems with ants in their homes and gardens. Usually ant numbers do not
increase significantly until November but this year the numbers are well above
normal and ants look set to invade more Kiwi homes and other buildings than before.

Ant nests can be inside buildings but are
more likely to be outside in dry soils under places like paving, drives and
rocks. The ants move indoors seeking food. They are often found following each
other in trails leading to and from food or marching across kitchen work tops
and into larders.There are several pest species of ant in New
Zealand and most are not native. They have been brought into the country
accidentally from Australia and other places around the world. As with many
other pests they have found conditions to their liking and multiply out of
control because their natural predators or competition are not found in New
Zealand. As a consequence, species such as Darwin Ants, Argentine Ants, White
Footed Ants and others form much larger colonies in New Zealand than in their
native regions.

Since the beginning of August I have handled 125% more enquiries regarding ant problems than the same period last year.

The combination of high soil moisture levels following a wet winter and
early spring warmth have produced almost perfect conditions for ant problems.

Spring is always the best time
to start baiting to control ants. Baits have most effect when the nests have
fewer numbers and queens are beginning production of eggs and new workers. With
the early boom in ant problems it is particularly prudent to be pro-active and
protect your home from ants now.Be prepared for the ant invasion, bait and protect yourself now. Baits
and other products for control of ants are readily available at hardware stores
and supermarkets and advice can be found at Kiwicare.co.nz or by contacting
Kiwicare.